Microsoft Word - SOP - Hands-On Sessions

Rev. 2 - Final

Hands-On - Liquid Line Break

STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURE

NAME:

Line Breaking

SCOPE:

This procedure details the steps to be taken during the opening (line break) of any valve group or piping for service or maintenance which may need to be performed on an ammonia refrigeration system.

EQUIPMENT:

Affects all valve groups connected to ammonia refrigeration systems and all interconnected ammonia piping for the equipment.

OPERATOR REQUIREMENTS:

A minimum of one (1) trained refrigeration technician is required to perform this procedure. The training can be from on-the-job experience and classroom instruction.

PPE required:

tools/equipment required:

have within reach: full-face respirator equipped with NH 3 cartridges

lockout/tagout equipment pipe wrenches Teflon® tape & paste water source nearby sulfur stick ammonia monitor

Wear: chemical Resistant gloves

goggles & face shield or respirator to be used whenever opening any part of the system.

SPECIAL SAFETY and HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS:

Anhydrous ammonia liquid quickly vaporizes once exposed to normal atmospheric temperature and pressure. When first released while pressurized, the ammonia will begin to boil off at a temperature of -28 º F causing a dense fog to form which will stay low until the ammonia heats up. Once heated, ammonia is lighter than air at most atmospheric conditions. Rain and high moisture can combine with ammonia making it heavier and causing it to stay lower to the ground. It is highly corrosive to skin and can cause irreversible damage to eyes. Initial contact with ammonia and eyes will cause excessive watering of the eyes to the point of being blinding. Avoid inhalation, skin contact, eye contact, and ingestion. Remove from exposure, if inhaled. Flush skin or eyes with water for at least 15 minutes. Do not induce vomiting if ingested; call a poison center. In all cases, medical aid should be sought. Associates who work with ammonia must not have any physical limitations that interfere with the use of full face respirators. Contact lenses should not be worn by those working with ammonia. Ammonia may ignite in confined areas and can react violently with strong acids. Flames should be extinguished and vapors controlled with a water fog or spray. Do not put water on liquid ammonia, this will cause violent boiling. Additional information on ammonia can be found in the Safety Data Sheets (SDS) for anhydrous ammonia - NH 3

Procedure: Line Breaking Reviewed: 10/26/2023

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